Though Morris's (Animals of the Bible
) lush watercolors accented with gold leaf obviously place the action at the very first Christmas, Lloyd-Jones's soothing, lyrical text expresses the universal love felt by parents awaiting the arrival of a new addition to the family. Numerous intimate portraits of the Holy Family, surrounded by realistic renderings of tranquil animals make this a fine volume for sharing. The gentle rhyming verses here may invite introductory discussion of not only the Nativity, but the joyous miracle of birth anytime of year. Ages 3-6. (Oct.)